Washington, D.C. – Investigators revisited the home of 53‑year‑old Antoinette Forbes on Wednesday, gathering additional evidence in the ongoing search for the missing mother of a ten‑year‑old son. The residence, located in the 3200 block of Nebraska Avenue Northwest, has been under police watch for several days as detectives work to piece together her disappearance, which was first reported on September 4.
Background and recent developments
Forbes was last seen leaving her home on the evening of September 4. Her dog, wallet, phone and car remained at the house, suggesting she left abruptly and without personal belongings. The District of Columbia Police Department has kept a cruiser stationed outside the property to preserve the scene and deter tampering.
On Wednesday afternoon, crime‑scene investigators returned to the address and removed several bags of potential evidence. While the specific contents of those bags have not been disclosed, the effort underscores the department’s commitment to a thorough investigation.
Ex‑boyfriend’s legal troubles
Complicating the case, Forbes’ former partner, 65‑year‑old Russell Ashford, was arrested in Beaver County, Pennsylvania, for allegedly violating probation terms. In July, Ashford attempted to pick up their son from a summer camp at American University, an act prohibited by a custody order that barred him from overnight visits. Police later located the child with Ashford in Pennsylvania, prompting the arrest.
Ashford’s criminal history includes a 2018 conviction for assaulting Forbes in their Maryland home, an incident in which a neighbor intervened to prevent further harm. He received a 15‑year sentence, served nine months, and later had the guilty finding vacated, resulting in probation before judgment.
Community response
Friends and family have expressed deep sorrow and determination to find Forbes. Long‑time friend Holly Wetzel said, “We are saddened and worried. We are resolute in continuing to work hard to help find her, getting the word out, and reminding everyone about the person she was.” Wetzel emphasized that many women endure abuse in silence, often to protect loved ones, and urged the public to assist.
Wetzel specifically asked residents to review any video footage captured between Friday, September 4, and Labor Day, September 7, in the vicinity of American University and surrounding neighborhoods. Anyone with relevant recordings or information is encouraged to contact the D.C. Police Department.
How to help
Authorities have set up a dedicated tip line for the case. Community members with sightings, photographs, or any details that might shed light on Forbes’ whereabouts should call the D.C. police non‑emergency number or submit tips online through the department’s official website.
The investigation remains active, and police have not ruled out any possibilities. As the extradition hearing for Ashford proceeds in Pennsylvania, officials hope that additional evidence gathered from Forbes’ home will provide new leads.
Looking ahead
The search for Antoinette Forbes highlights the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law‑enforcement agencies. Residents are reminded that timely information can make a critical difference in missing‑person cases, and that the safety of families across the District depends on collective effort.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
